Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) Law Enforcement Driver Practice Test

When turning at high speeds, how does steering input change?

1. You need to move the steering wheel more

2. You need to move the steering wheel less

3. Steering becomes less responsive

4. Steering should be avoided

The correct answer is: You need to move the steering wheel less

When turning at high speeds, the dynamics of a vehicle require a different approach to steering input. As speed increases, the centrifugal force acting on the vehicle also increases, which affects the vehicle's stability and handling. To achieve a smooth and controlled turn, the driver must use less steering input. This is because too much steering can lead to oversteering, where the rear wheels lose traction and the vehicle can spin out of control. By reducing the amount of steering input, the driver can maintain better control over the vehicle's path, allowing the car to navigate through the turn without excessive lateral movement. This technique helps in managing the weight transfer and maintaining traction on the tires, which is critical in high-speed maneuvers. Essentially, at high speeds, a delicate balance is needed, and less steering input aids in ensuring that the vehicle stays within its handling limits.